Moray Council deploys covert CCTV cameras

Story link: Moray Council deploys covert CCTV cameras by Jan Harris

As part of a £250,000 investment in CCTV, Moray Council has purchased hi-tech mobile radio cameras which can be hidden in fake rocks and plants.

The cameras will be deployed at troublespots in order to help prevent anti-social behaviour and fly-tippers, and to help catch offenders. Moray Council is the second local authority in Scotland to buy covert surveillance cameras, which are already used by Falkirk Council.

The decision to use covert CCTV has been criticised as an invasion of privacy. However, according to CCTV working party chairman, Councillor Douglas Ross, a warrant from a court is required before footage from the cameras can be used as evidence.

Mobile CCTV cameras are also being launched in Keith and Lossiemouth, in a £230,000 investment. The cameras use radio transmitters rather than fixed cabling.

They will beam live images to a police control room in Elgin. The cameras will be clearly visible, and it is hoped they deter anti-social behaviour.